Our bodies are constantly adapting to environmental cues to enhance our chances of survival. And while our bodies try as they might, sometimes they need varying degrees of help to survive. Us healthcare professionals are the ones entrusted with helping those that need this help to survive. In other words, the health of the populations we serve depends on the ability of us healthcare professionals to adapt the way we work in order to work together as interprofessional teams.
Why Be Adaptable?
The ability of individuals and teams from different health professions to adjust their thinking, communication styles, and actions in response to changing situations, diverse perspectives, and evolving needs improves outcomes for patients. In real-life practice, adaptability becomes visible when plans are modified, different areas of expertise are respected, and flexibility is maintained even when things do not go as expected.
Through our experience as interns in the Interprofessional Internship program, we have learned that adaptability is not about having all the answers. Rather, it is about being willing to learn, unlearn, and relearn while working alongside professionals who may think, communicate, and solve problems differently. This openness allows collaboration to become more meaningful and effective, especially in environments where teamwork is essential.
One of the major strengths of adaptability when working as a team is its impact on personal and professional growth. Adaptability pushes individuals out of their comfort zones and challenges them to grow. It encourages us to listen more closely, accommodate differing opinions, and respect perspectives that may not align with our own. As a result, it promotes mutual respect among team members. Additionally, adaptability improves teamwork and problem-solving by encouraging both individuals and teams to explore multiple solutions rather than rigidly holding on to a single idea. Think about it: where would patient outcomes be if healthcare professionals never once challenged an accepted standard of care?
Adapting, Together
Adaptability does not develop in isolation. It is influenced by several factors, including organizational culture, communication styles, leadership support, personal attitudes, and workload pressures. Open and inclusive environments tend to encourage flexibility, while rigid or hierarchical structures can limit it. Clear and respectful communication supports adaptability, whereas misunderstandings or professional jargon may create barriers. Supportive leadership that welcomes feedback and models flexibility makes it easier for team members—especially interns—to adapt and contribute confidently. On the other hand, fear of making mistakes, resistance to change, high stress, and time pressure can reduce one’s ability to remain adaptable.
Promoting adaptable approaches requires intentional effort. Encouraging open communication allows individuals to ask questions, share ideas, and learn from one another. Supporting interprofessional learning through collaboration and shared experiences helps team members better understand each other’s roles and strengths. Normalizing feedback and reflection enables continuous learning and improvement. When flexibility is modeled at all levels, it empowers everyone to adapt without fear. Most importantly, creating emotionally safe spaces where individuals feel respected and valued encourages creativity, confidence, and willingness to try new approaches.
In general, adaptability is a vital skill in interprofessional settings. It strengthens collaboration, enhances learning, and helps teams respond effectively to real-world challenges. It could also save a life.
References
Benner, P., Sutphen, M., Leonard, V., & Day, L. (2010). Educating nurses: A call for radical transformation. Jossey-Bass.
Reeves, S., Pelone, F., Harrison, R., Goldman, J., & Zwarenstein, M. (2017). Interprofessional collaboration to improve professional practice and healthcare outcomes. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, (6).
World Health Organization. (2010). Framework for action on interprofessional education and collaborative practice.
Edmondson, A. C. (2018). The fearless organization. Wiley.